Local senior tunes up for college

Screaming trumpets and bellowing trombones. A bass thumps out a beat. Then the sound of the choir joins in. These are the sounds that are familiar to senior Kaitlen Bird.

Music has been a large part of Bird’s life for many years. Seven, in fact, four of which she has spent in Jazz Band at MCHS. Bird is also involved with music at her church. When asked which instruments she plays, Bird responded, “All of them.” In all, Bird plays drums, trombone, bass trombone, guitar, bass, and electric guitar. She has been playing bass trombone at Jazz Fest for the last three years. Bird also owns a ukulele. “It’s named Dwayne. That’s like, the dumbest name ever for a uk,” she said laughing. But band isn’t her only musical outlet. Bird has been involved with centerstage choir this past semester. “I sing, for choir and stuff like that, it’s just for fun.” In the end though, she prefers band and her favorite instrument, the trombone. “I’m gonna compare this to football ‘cuz it’s just how I compare everything. You can only play football for so long in your life. But I’ve seen, like at Jazz Fest, I’ve seen 97-year-olds playing trumpets and screaming notes, and you can do that for the rest of your life until you die.”

When asked about her influences, Bird’s response was quick; “God”. Worshipping God is important to her, and she feels the best way to do this is through her musical talent. Her other big influence is her family. Bird’s two younger sisters are also involved with band. Her parents have always been big supporters. “My mom was a big person, she came to every concert and she always came to the games even though it was freezing or raining, and she would encourage me.” Bird says of her late mother’s dedication. Bird’s mother passed away earlier this year. When asked about the passing and the impact she suffered, “It made me want to try harder. I just wanted to make myself better and improve in my music as much as I can for her.”

Bird plans on attending Mesa University in the fall to major in music. She hopes to one day teach music, possibly here at MCHS.